Delhi: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched a nationwide initiative to develop world-class public toilet facilities at toll plazas across the National Highway network. The initiative aims to improve sanitation, hygiene and commuter convenience through modern infrastructure, digital monitoring and performance-based maintenance.
Under the new framework, NHAI will renovate existing toilet blocks and construct new sanitation facilities using standardised, indigenously developed designs. The facilities will combine strong structural features with sustainable and green building practices to ensure consistent quality across the National Highway network.
New Performance-Based Framework for Better Maintenance
NHAI will implement the initiative through an Innovative Performance-Based Contracts framework, which is designed to ensure high standards of cleanliness, functionality and long-term maintenance.
The framework will focus on:
- Regular and reliable maintenance of toilet facilities.
- High standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
- Standardised quality across toll plazas.
- Sustainable and green infrastructure.
- Better service delivery for highway commuters.
The upgraded facilities are expected to provide clean, safe and accessible public amenities for travellers using the National Highway network.
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IoT-Based System to Monitor Toilet Facilities
To ensure that sanitation facilities remain well-maintained over the long term, NHAI has introduced a technology-driven operational and maintenance model.
The system will use Internet of Things (IoT)-based live telemetry systems to monitor key maintenance parameters in real time.
This technology will help enable:
- Real-time monitoring of facility conditions.
- Proactive maintenance.
- Faster identification of maintenance requirements.
- Improved operational efficiency.
- Better service delivery for commuters.
The technology-driven approach is expected to reduce maintenance gaps and ensure that facilities remain functional and hygienic.
Performance-Linked Payments to Ensure Accountability
The new framework also introduces a performance-linked payment mechanism to improve accountability among maintenance agencies.
Their performance will be assessed through:
- Automated Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
- Periodic independent audits.
- Verified commuter feedback.
- Feedback received through NHAI’s Rajmargyatra Mobile App.
This system will link maintenance performance with payments and allow commuters to contribute directly to monitoring service quality.
Focus on Accessibility and Safety for Women
NHAI said all new facilities will incorporate universal accessibility features in compliance with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016.
The facilities will be designed to provide barrier-free access for persons with disabilities and ensure that public amenities are accessible to a wider range of travellers.
The initiative will also prioritise:
- Clean and reliable water supply.
- Modern sanitation infrastructure.
- Improved hygiene standards.
- Dedicated facilities focused on the safety and privacy of women travellers.
These measures are aimed at making highway travel more comfortable and inclusive for all commuters.
Initiative Aims to Improve Highway Travel Experience
Through the development of modern sanitation facilities supported by digital monitoring and outcome-based maintenance, NHAI aims to significantly improve the overall travel experience on the National Highway network.
The initiative is expected to establish new benchmarks for public sanitation, hygiene, accessibility and maintenance at toll plazas across India.
